Geologists
Overview
Introduction
Geologists are geoscientists who study all aspects of the earth, including its origin, history, composition, and structure. Along more practical lines, geologists may, through the use of theoretical knowledge and research data, locate groundwater, oil, natural gas, minerals, and other natural resources. They play an increasingly important role in studying, preserving, and cleaning up the environment. They advise construction companies and government agencies on the suitability of locations being considered for buildings...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the median annual salary for geoscientists was $91,130 in May 2018; the top paid 10 percent earned more than $187,990, while the lowest paid 10 percent earned less than $49,430 a year. At state government agencies, the average salary for geoscientists was $76,670.
Earth science professors earned a median annual salary of $90,8...
Work Environment
Some geologists spend most of their time in a laboratory or office, working a regular 40-hour week in pleasant conditions; others divide their time between fieldwork and office or laboratory work. Those who work in the field often travel to remote sites by helicopter or four-wheel drive vehicle and cover large areas on foot. They may camp for extended periods of time in primitive conditions wit...
Outlook
Employment for geologists is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2028, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH). Opportunities in the field will be good because a large number of geologists are expected to retire during the next decade and demand for energy resources is expected to increase. Job opportunities will be especially strong f...